Can I legally use my maiden name?
William Jenkins
Updated on February 19, 2026
Brette’s Answer: You can use your maiden name at any time you want. To change it on legal documents such as a driver’s license, Social Security card, or passports though you need a court order, which usually happens in your divorce decree. What name you use has no impact on bills or settlement.
Does name on credit card have to match legal name?
No. Your legit name should be according to your birth certificate, your passport or your national identification card. All other variation of your name used in credit cards, debit cards and other documents are not your legal or legit name.
Does your name automatically change when you get married?
Since your name does not change automatically when you get married, you have to make sure you follow all the necessary legal steps to changing your name after the wedding.
How do I change my name on my credit cards after marriage?
To change your name on a card after a legal name change, start by calling the number on your card or 800-432-3117. You’ll need to fax or mail supporting documentation to complete the change, which may include court documents for the name change, driver’s license, Social Security card, passport or naturalization papers.
Can I use both my maiden name and married name?
This is one of the most popular name change trends today, as women can take their spouse’s last name but still keep their maiden name. This can be done in all states except California (unless you list your maiden as your middle name on your marriage license), Ohio, New Jersey, and Washington.
Can I go back to my maiden name while still married?
Advice for a woman on separation If you changed your name when you got married, you can go back to your maiden name at any time, but you will need to do this by deed poll. Changing your name by deed poll will not affect any divorce proceedings that may follow your separation.
Does the name on a credit card matter?
No, middle initials or middle names are not required and having (or not having) that information will not cause the credit card to be rejected. Most banks do not require that the name on the card to match the purchaser’s name provided by the cardholder.
Can You Change Your maiden name on a credit card?
Another 10 percent are hyphenating their maiden name with their husband’s. Here’s the proper way to change your surname so that your credit and charge card accounts are up to date and reflect the same name you have on file with your financial institutions, the Internal Revenue Service and the Social Security Administration. 1.
When to use your maiden name or married name?
You can continue to use your maiden name until you have decided whether to use it or your married name in each situation… and you may never really change your name when you’re chatting with old friends!
Where do I go to change my credit card name?
As a Chase credit card holder, you can call the phone number on the back of your card. You can also call 800-432-3117 or visit your local Chase branch for assistance with your name change request. You may be asked to forward copies of documents proving your legal name change.
How do I Change My Name on my American Express card?
Of the credit card issuers who post online instructions for changing your name on your credit card, only American Express allows you to change your name online. You can simply fill out a name change authorization form and upload a copy of your new identification, such as your new driver’s license, to complete your request.